Eggplant Parmesan: A Classic Italian Delight
Eggplant Parmesan, also known as Melanzane alla Parmigiana, is a rich and savory dish that has captured the hearts of Italian cuisine lovers worldwide. This beloved recipe combines the tender, earthy flavors of eggplant with the tangy sweetness of tomato sauce, all topped off with the gooey, melted perfection of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that promises a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a staple in Italian cooking and a favorite among food enthusiasts.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Flavorful Layers: Every bite of Eggplant Parmesan is a blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a fancy gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty option for those looking for delicious vegetarian dishes that don’t compromise on taste or texture.
The Magic Behind the Dish
The secret to a perfect Eggplant Parmesan lies in the preparation of its components. The eggplants are typically sliced, salted, and then either fried or baked to achieve a golden-brown perfection before being layered with a vibrant tomato sauce and a generous amount of cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, the result is a dish that’s both comforting and utterly delectable.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, making Eggplant Parmesan is an enjoyable process that rewards you with a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. Its combination of simple, quality ingredients and rich, comforting flavors make it a timeless classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Eggplant Parmesan
Description
Eggplant Parmesan combines the tender flavors of eggplant with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheeses for a comforting Italian classic.Ingredients
For the Eggplant
For the Sauce
For the Layers
Instructions
Preparing the Eggplant
-
Drain the Eggplant
After salting the eggplant slices, let them sit for about an hour to draw out moisture. Rinse with water and pat dry with paper towels.
-
Bread the Eggplant
Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
-
Fry or Bake
Fry the breaded eggplant slices in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides, or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Making the Sauce
-
Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until soft. -
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and dried basil. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Assembling the Dish
-
Layer the Ingredients
In a baking dish, layer the fried eggplant slices, sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil leaves. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used. -
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving Size 1 portion
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 600kcal
- Calories from Fat 200kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22gg34%
- Saturated Fat 10gg50%
- Cholesterol 60mgmg20%
- Sodium 1200mgmg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 75gg25%
- Dietary Fiber 12gg48%
- Sugars 16gg
- Protein 28gg57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
